Brenda Cowan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Brenda Cowan
|
|
|---|---|
| Born |
Brenda Denise Cowan
May 9, 1963 |
| Died | February 13, 2004 (aged 40) |
| Cause of death | Shot |
| Resting place | New Salem Baptist Cemetery Union County, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Alma mater | University of Kentucky |
| Occupation | Emergency medical technician (EMT) and firefighter |
Brenda Denise Cowan (May 9, 1963 – February 13, 2004) was a very important person in the history of Lexington, Kentucky. She was the city's first black female firefighter. Brenda was also the first black female career firefighter to die while on duty. She bravely served with the Lexington Fire Department for twelve years. Brenda was the sister of Fred Cowan, who was a member of the University of Kentucky's 1978 national championship basketball team.
Contents
Brenda Cowan's Life and Legacy
Brenda Cowan was a pioneer who broke barriers. Her dedication to helping others left a lasting impact. She is remembered for her courage and commitment to public service.
Early Life and Education
Brenda Cowan was born in Sturgis, Kentucky, on May 9, 1963. Her parents were Ella Irene Dawson and Reverend Tabb Frank Scott Cowan, Sr. Her father was a minister at the New Salem Baptist Church in Sturgis.
Brenda had five siblings: Glenn, Linwood, Fred, Helen, and Myrtle. She attended Union County High School. There, she was a talented basketball player for the Bravettes team. Brenda was even named the Most Valuable Player of the girls' basketball team in both 1979 and 1981. She was single and did not have any children.
Making History as a Firefighter
Brenda Cowan joined the Lexington Fire Department. She became the first black woman to serve as a firefighter in that city. This was a significant achievement. Her work helped open doors for other women and minorities in the fire service. She served for over a decade, showing great dedication.
The Brenda D. Cowan Act
After Brenda Cowan's death, a special law was created in her honor. In March 2005, the Kentucky Senate passed Senate Bill 217. This bill is known as the Brenda D. Cowan Act.
This important law changed how the state deals with people who harm emergency workers. It states that if someone causes or tries to cause physical injury to emergency medical services personnel, firefighters, or rescue squad members, they can be charged with a serious crime. This law helps protect the brave people who work to keep communities safe.
